2010 Audi A3: Road Test
2010 Audi A3 ▼
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- MSRP: $27,270 - $30,850
- Invoice: $25,361 - $28,690
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Our road test for the 2010 Audi A3 includes a full evaluation of the 2010 Audi A3 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2010 Audi A3, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2010 Audi A3 help you decide if a 2010 Audi A3 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 2.0T, manual | 2.0T w/navigation, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 6.7 |
Audi's 0-60 mph-claims for 2.0T--6.7 seconds with automatic, 6.9 with manual transmission--rang true in our tests. The 4-cylinder lags in low-speed power delivery, then supplies it with a rush. The manual transmission is super smooth. The automatic's shifts are rewardingly smooth and prompt when used in manual mode. In some test A3s, slurred automatic-mode shifts introduced some low-speed driveline jerkiness. No diesel or AWD 2.0T models have been made available for testing so far.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 2.0T, manual | 2.0T w/navigation, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 5.8 |
In Consumer Guide testing, our extended-use front-drive 2.0T automatic averaged 26.3 mpg over 12,290 miles. Other test automatic 2.0Ts averaged 23.3-25.4 mpg. We've not had the opportunity to measure fuel economy with a manual-transmission model. Audi recommends premium-grade gas for the 2.0T.
RIDE QUALITY
| 2.0T, manual | 2.0T w/navigation, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.4 |
2.0T models have a firm but reasonably absorbent ride with their base suspension setup. Models with the sport suspension are notably stiffer, enough to thump on sharp bumps and washboard surfaces, especially with their available low-profile 18-inch tires. All are stable at highway speeds.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 2.0T, manual | 2.0T w/navigation, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7.3 |
Any A3 is agile, but base-suspension 2.0Ts suffer from some noseplow in tight, fast turns. A3s with the sport suspension have sharper responses and little noseplow. Steering is accurate and linear, though some testers want firmer feel. Rapid takeoffs induce minor torque-steer in front-drive models. Braking is strong.
QUIETNESS
| 2.0T, manual | 2.0T w/navigation, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 |
Some coarse-surface tire thrum is noticeable on base models, and it rises with the available 18-inch tires. Wind rush is low at highway speeds. The 2.0T engine sounds classy while accelerating.
CONTROLS
| 2.0T, manual | 2.0T w/navigation, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 5 | 6.2 |
Like costlier Audis, A3s impress with clear gauges and handy switchgear, though their complex dual-zone climate controls require familiarization. A single console control knob governs most navigation-system functions on models so equipped. The navigation also absorbs and complicates many audio controls.
DETAILS
| 2.0T, manual | 2.0T w/navigation, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 7.2 |
Again, like its more expensive siblings, the A3's cabin is handsomely assembled from tasteful, high-quality materials. Our extended-use 2.0T held up extremely well during its 12,290-mile test.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 2.0T, manual | 2.0T w/navigation, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.8 |
Headroom and legroom are plentiful. The seats are all-day comfortable. The available sport buckets have slightly larger side bolsters for excellent support in turns. Oddly, even the power seats include some manual adjustments. The rear roofline slightly impedes driver vision aft and to the right rear.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 2.0T, manual | 2.0T w/navigation, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 3.7 |
Headroom and legroom are adequate, even for six-footers, as long as the front seats are not set far back. The cushion is nicely padded but not long enough for good thigh support. Doors open wide, but the passage is narrow, hampering entry and exit.
CARGO ROOM
| 2.0T, manual | 2.0T w/navigation, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 4 |
A3 has less space than a small station wagon but is far more versatile than a compact sedan. The hatch door lacks opening glass but lifts high for access to a usefully roomy, flat-floor cargo bay. Rear seatbacks fold easily to extend the load area but don't lay completely flat. Cabin has good small-item storage.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 2.0T, manual | 2.0T w/navigation, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 5.7 |
While it hasn't been lighting up the sales charts, A3 is a premium compact that deserves serious consideration. It delivers a good array of features, versatility, and driving enjoyment. All suffer from non-linear turbo-engine power delivery, but they earn our nod for offering excellent dollar value. The new diesel promises the same levels of refinement but with better fuel economy over the already thrifty turbocharged gasoline 4-cylinder.
Total Score
| 2.0T, manual | 2.0T w/navigation, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 71 | 69 | 64.8 |
Total Score: 70
Scores for all Premium Compact Cars
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